Director of Brand Partnerships

Head of Brand Partnerships AKA NYC  is a New York City based, award-winning, fully integrated advertising agency with unparalleled expertise across the arts & entertainment, leisure, travel, retail, and tourism sectors.

We are content-forward and data-fueled with a proven record of delivering cross-platform campaigns that get results.  We are proud to partner with some of the most iconic names in entertainment, culture, and live experiences.

Our client roster includes  Broadway’s biggest shows , world-renowned institutions like  The Metropolitan Museum of Art , vibrant attractions such as  The New York Botanical Garden , and dynamic sports organizations like the  Harlem Globetrotters .

From the magic of live theatre to the energy of stadiums and the wonder of cultural landmarks, we craft campaigns that connect audiences with real experiences – providing real stories, real emotions and real connections.  AKA is looking for a Head of Strategic Brand Partnerships who will be responsible for conceiving, securing, and delivering world-class brand partnerships and sponsorships that amplify our portfolio of clients.

This role demands a visionary dealmaker — someone who thrives on ideation, negotiation, and crafting mutually beneficial partnerships that drive both cultural relevance and commercial success.  They will identify, negotiate, and execute innovative, high-impact collaborations between global brands and live entertainment properties, with a particular focus on theatrical productions.

This individual will bring a powerful mix of strategic thinking, creative ideation, and commercial savvy to deliver breakthrough programs that elevate both the agency and its clients.  WHAT YOU’LL DO  Strategic Partnership Development  Identify and develop partnership opportunities that align brands with our clients’ audiences, IP, and creative narratives.

Lead ideation and strategy for large-scale sponsorships and co-branded initiatives that drive visibility, engagement, and revenue.

Build and manage a robust pipeline of partnership prospects through proactive networking, outreach, and industry relationships.

Craft compelling pitches, partnership decks, and proposals that articulate value, innovation, and measurable impact.

Negotiate and close high-value deals with brand partners, ensuring alignment with client goals and agency standards.  Creative & Strategic Ideation  Collaborate with internal creative and strategy teams to develop standout concepts that fuse brand storytelling with live entertainment.

Introduce new ways to bring partnerships to life through digital, experiential, and content-driven activations.

Stay ahead of emerging trends in brand collaboration, audience engagement, and entertainment marketing.  Execution & Delivery  Oversee the execution of partnership programs, ensuring seamless integration, delivery, and measurable success.

Manage partner relationships through every stage of activation, ensuring both client and partner satisfaction.

Track performance metrics and provide post-campaign analysis and insights to refine future partnerships.  Agency Growth & Thought Leadership  Position the agency as a leader in brand partnerships for entertainment and cultural experiences.

Develop frameworks and best practices to “productize” partnership offerings and generate new revenue streams.

Represent the agency at industry events, conferences, and panels, driving visibility and thought leadership.

Contribute to new business efforts by crafting partnership-driven strategies and proposals.  WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR  A strategic and creative partnerships expert with 15+ years of experience developing brand collaborations, sponsorships, and activations for entertainment or cultural clients.

A proven dealmaker with a strong network of brand contacts and a track record of securing major sponsorships.

A creative thinker who can turn ideas into actionable, results-driven partnerships.

An articulate storyteller who can translate strategy into compelling brand narratives.  Passionate about entertainment, theater, and live experiences.+ Aligned with AKA’s core values of Imagination, Inclusivity, Collaboration, Passion, Integrity, and Results.

WHAT WE OFFER :

• The salary range for this position in New York, NY is $100,000 to $125,000 per year, with commission split on cash sponsorships secured.
• The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and years of experience.
• A discretionary bonus may be provided as part of the total compensation package.

AKA also offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and balance, including :

We’d love to hear from you! Please apply through our website.